ICC Confirms Dubai as Neutral Venue for India’s Matches in 2025 Champions Trophy

India to play Bangladesh, Pakistan, and New Zealand in Dubai amid political tensions surrounding the event’s host nation, Pakistan

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that Dubai will serve as the neutral venue for India’s matches during the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to take place in Pakistan. As a result of political tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has decided not to send its team to Pakistan, following government advice.

India’s campaign will begin against Bangladesh on February 20, 2025, at Dubai International Stadium. They will then face archrivals Pakistan on February 23, followed by a match against New Zealand on March 2. The tournament will also see Dubai hosting the first semifinal on March 4, with the final scheduled for March 9, should India qualify. If India does not make it to the final, Lahore will host the concluding match.

Pakistan, the defending champions of the tournament, will kick off the event with a match against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi.